The Pixel 8 Pro has officially become the first Android smartphone to utilize Google’s advanced AI model, Gemini, as of today, according to the company's announcement. This update introduces Gemini Nano, a specialized version of the model designed for on-device performance, allowing it to work seamlessly with Google’s Tensor G3 chip. This integration powers two key features: Summarize in Recorder and Smart Reply in Gboard. With on-device processing, users can enjoy these features without compromising sensitive data or needing a network connection.
Gemini Nano is optimized to run efficiently on smartphones, enhancing the Recorder app on the Pixel 8 Pro with a new AI summarization feature. Users can record audio with a simple button press, and now they will receive a summarized version of their recorded conversations, interviews, or presentations. The inclusion of Gemini ensures that these summaries can be accessed offline, offering convenience wherever you are.
Starting today, this feature is available for Pixel 8 Pro users. Additionally, the Recorder app now supports transcription in 28 new languages.
Furthermore, Gemini Nano is being launched in Gboard, Google’s popular keyboard app, currently in developer preview. This upgrade introduces the Smart Reply functionality, which suggests relevant responses during conversations in messaging apps. Initially, this feature will support WhatsApp with plans to expand to additional applications in 2024. With Gemini Nano, users can expect more natural and context-aware suggestions for their replies.
Beyond direct device applications, Android users will have access to Gemini’s capabilities through Bard. Early next year, this will also enhance the Google Assistant on Pixel devices, elevating it to compete more effectively with services like Siri and ChatGPT.
In the long term, the enhanced AI features could attract new users to Android. With the introduction of Beeper—an app that brings iMessage to Android—many are contemplating a switch to their preferred Android devices. Google’s continued advancements in artificial intelligence are transforming its Pixel phones into powerful AI-enabled smartphones, showcasing features like Magic Editor and Best Take in Google Photos, AI-assisted call screening, and more.
Alongside the Gemini enhancements, Google has announced additional features for the Pixel 8 Pro through a blog post. This includes a new Video Boost feature utilizing Tensor G3 to enhance video uploads—adjusting color, lighting, stabilization, and clarity. Additionally, the Night Sight video capability allows for noise reduction in low-light conditions while recording videos, including timelapse sessions.
A new AI model for Google Photos will enhance Portrait Lighting, while the Photo Unblur feature is now capable of sharpening images of playful pets that tend to move during photoshoots.
Other Pixel devices are also benefiting from notable upgrades, including the “Dual Screen Preview” mode for the Pixel Fold, allowing users to preview photos easily. Moreover, models like Pixel Fold and Pixel 6 and newer can now connect to computers via USB, enabling the phone to function as a webcam during video calls. These devices will also introduce “contextual replies” during Call Screen, which feature has also been rolled out to the Pixel Watch. Enhanced functionalities like Pixel’s Direct My Call and Hold for Me have been expanded to business numbers in the U.K.
Additionally, a new “Clean” feature will assist in removing smudges and stains from scanned documents. Other enhancements include improvements in security, authentication features, new widgets, and specific updates for the Pixel Watch and Pixel Tablet, as detailed in Google’s blog.
Updated 12/6/23, 4:50 PM ET with additional details regarding the Pixel feature rollout.
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